&bull Road test. The Lakers aren’t very good on the road. Dating back to last year, they have lost four of five, with two big disappointments this season – 57-14 at Ohio Dominican and 54-44 at Ferris State. So, for Northwood, coach Matt Mitchell planned to have a more upbeat walk-through Friday in an attempt to shake up the routine. He has to try something. Mitchell’s career record is 32-10, and eight of the losses have been on the road. A loss to struggling Northwood would be fatal for the season.

&bull Quarterback update. Heath Parling has been practicing this week, but on a limited basis following a shoulder injury. Mitchell said he will warm up Saturday, but he’s inclined to go with Isiah Grimes because he’s gotten most of the reps. Grimes stepped in for Parling for the second time this season, and he performed well in three quarters in a 48-17 win against Northern Michigan – 13 of 22 for 240 yards, no interceptions and two touchdowns.

&bull Running wild. The Lakers are fortunate Michael Ratay has been solid and steady this season (719 yards rushing, 18 receptions for 194 yards) because the depth of the position has been challenged. Kirk Spencer remains out with a broken hand and Chris Robinson is expected to miss the game with a shoulder injury. Fourth-stringer Ben Hutchins, a special teams ace, has made the most of his opportunities. He had 34 yards on four carries last week, and should see more action this week along with Hersey Jackson.

&bull Something special. Joel Schipper has been just what the Lakers needed as a kicker. The true freshman connected twice last week, including a season long 34-yarder late in the first half last week during a sudden hail storm. Schipper hasn’t missed this season on five attempts. Last year the Lakers had three field goals all season, on nine attempts.

&bull What about Northwood? The Timberwolves are the second consecutive winnable game for the Lakers. They have lost four in a row since a season-opening 41-31 win against Findley. Opponents carve them up for 510 yards a game, with nearly 300 of that coming on pass coverage. Offensively, they have former Michigan State running back Glenn Winston (572 yards, 4.5 per carry), but the team is averaging only 108 yards rushing a game. They lost 31-7 last week at Michigan Tech.